The Legend and History of Seetha Devi Lake

March 04, 2024

Seetha Devi Lake is a hidden lake and waterfall in Devikulam, Munnar, Kerala, India. The lake is around 13 kilometers from Munnar and may be reached by hiking through forests and plantations. The Seetha Devi Lake Trek in Munnar provides a tranquil and enchanting experience amidst the verdant Western Ghats of Kerala, India. While the journey itself is not historically noteworthy, the region is rich in culture and mythology. The lake is named after Seetha Devi, Lord Rama's wife from the Hindu epic Ramayana. According to legend, Seetha Devi bathed in the lake's beautiful waters during her exile. The hike takes you on a journey rich in mythology and natural beauty.

History Behind Seetha Devi Lake

The Ramayana, the Hindu epic that is often regarded as a religious text, tells the story of how Seetha Devi Lake and, later, the hill station of Devikulam were named. They claim that Seetha, who is frequently given the title of god, took a bath in this lake. The lake is rich in essential minerals, which makes it therapeutic. This is sometimes attributed to the legend of Seetha bathing in this lake. A dip in the lake is said to cure many diseases, just as many other natural mineral pools in many parts of the world are known to do. The Malayali translation of Devikulam is ‘lake of the goddess', as ‘devi’ means ‘goddess’ and ‘kulam’ means 'pond', giving proof that the place was named after the very lake that calls it home.

The Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Seetha Devi Lake is during the post-monsoon season, which lasts from September to November and then again from January to March, when the temperature is nice and the scenery is decked with beautiful flowers. The trek offers a modest challenge that is suited for both novices and expert trekkers, making it an accessible excursion for a diverse variety of people. The Seetha Devi Lake Trek begins at Munnar, a renowned hill region noted for its tea plantations and panoramic views. The journey is normally open all year, although the best months to visit are the post-monsoon season (September to November) and the pre-monsoon season (March to May). The weather is pleasant at this time, with clear skies and rich flora, making the walk more enjoyable.

The trekking track is bordered by lush forests, allowing visitors to see the Western Ghats' rich flora and animals. The trail is deemed moderate, making it appropriate for both novice and expert hikers. The trip takes about 4–5 hours, including stops to view the scenery and take photographs.

While planning their journey, guests can visit neighboring sights such as the Mattupetty Dam and Echo Point. These locations offer an extra opportunity to experience the region's natural splendor. Seetha Devi Lake itself is a serene location, excellent for rest and introspection.

How to Reach Seetha Devi Lake

Munnar is well-connected by road, and getting to Seetha Devi Lake is relatively easy. To get to the trek's starting point, use a taxi or a local bus from Munnar. The route to the trek's beginning point is picturesque, traveling past tea estates and winding roads that provide vistas of the breathtaking countryside.

Attractions and Nearby Places to Explore

Echo Point

Echo Point is a significant site on the walk to Seetha Devi Lake. True to its name, this location provides an acoustic miracle in which your voice bounces back to you from the nearby hills. It's a fun pitstop for hikers to experiment with echoes in the peaceful surroundings.

Kundala Dam

Another highlight of the journey is the Kundala Dam, a beautiful reservoir surrounded by lush foliage and mist-covered hills. The dam is a wonderful location for photographers, with spectacular views of the terrain and opportunities to observe local flora and fauna.

Mattupetty Dam

Before beginning the climb, guests can visit the adjacent Mattupetty Dam, which is a renowned tourist destination known for its panoramic views and boating amenities. The dam is bordered by beautiful tea plantations, making it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Interesting Facts About Devikulam and Seetha Devi Lake

• The Seetha Devi Lake in Devikulam, while revered by Hindus, allows trout fishing and angling in general, including for tourists. If you want to go fishing in this lake, you don't have to bring your own equipment because fish hooks can be rented. However, you must obtain permission from Tata Tea before engaging in angling or even visiting the lake.
• Devikulam has gained international recognition for its unique art form of painting with sand, chalk powder, and rice flour. The painting style, known as Kolam, involves the use of powdered materials in a variety of colors to create appealing images by hand. Kolam, like rangoli, which is popular in North India, takes pride in using only natural dyes. In addition to paying homage to the Hindu deity Lakshmi (the goddess of wealth), these patterns are used to feed insects and birds.
• Devikulam offers a pleasant climate year-round, with summer temperatures reaching 20 degrees Celsius and winter temperatures dropping to zero degrees.
• Devikulam's forests are abundant with rare herbs, tall gum trees, and wildflowers. Botanists and naturalists in general will undoubtedly find the woods interesting.
• The Indo-Swiss Livestock Project breeds over 100 cow varieties in the hill station of Devikulam.
• While boating is not traditionally associated with hill towns, Devikulam, thanks to the lakes on its premises, provides visitors with boating options. You can look forward to pedal boating, motor boat rides, and even trying your hand at rowing.
• According to the 2010 census, Devikulam had only 350 residents. That means there are more tourists than permanent residents.
• Devikulam has a total area of 215 square kilometers (83 square miles).